Possibility of Transformation of Primary Health Care Centers Into Family Health Centers

Background: Primary health care (PHC) centers represent the first level of contact between the community and the health system and play a major role in providing essential health services. The family health approach aims to improve the quality, continuity, and comprehensiveness of health care through integrated services delivered by trained family physicians and multidisciplinary health teams. Objective: To evaluate the possibility of transforming primary health care centers into family health centers within Baghdad Al-Karkh Health Directorate. Methods: A descriptive analytical study was conducted between September and November 2017 in six PHC sectors belonging to Baghdad Al-Karkh Health Directorate. A total of 60 health centers were included, of which 41 operated under the conventional PHC system and 19 under the family health system. More than 13 variables related to family health requirements were assessed, including number of physicians, family physicians, medical and health staff, medical units, dental units, archive systems, radiology units, ultrasound availability, and visitor health programs. Results: Most centers had adequate population coverage, suitable infrastructure, sufficient medical and health staff, and active archive systems. Radiology and ultrasound services were available in the majority of centers. However, there was a marked shortage of specialized family physicians and limited staff training regarding the family health system. Approximately more than half of the PHC centers were considered capable of transformation into family health centers after minor modifications and resource support. Conclusion: Transformation of PHC centers into family health centers is feasible in Baghdad Al-Karkh. Successful implementation requires improved training programs, redistribution of family physicians, strengthening of infrastructure, and enhancement of electronic health systems and community awareness.